This chapter discusses epidemiologic, pathophysiology and diagnostic issues
associated with long term none medical use of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS)
.These agents are synthetic derivatives of the hormone testosterone with higher
bioavailability and activity [1]. These drugs are used by athletes to gain muscle mass
thereby gaining advantage. As a result many users often don’t disclose their use to their
doctors [2, 3]. Medical complications may include, hypertension, cardiomyopathy and
hypogonadism. Psychiatric complications may include mood and psychotic disorders
[4]. Withdrawal may lead to dysphoria and irritability. Patients usually do not consider
themselves as addicted. They traditionally think that they are more knowledgeable
about these drugs than their doctors [2, 3]. In USA, AAS are currently schedule class
III drugs requiring prescription, however they can be easily obtained online from other
countries.
